Public Safety

Body of missing kayaker recovered in Okaloosa County

Wessam Bassam Shaer, 32, went missing Saturday after a witness observed his kayak capsize near Lincoln Park in Valparaiso.

Jared Williams

The body of a kayaker who went missing in Boggy Bayou on Saturday was recovered Sunday morning, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office reported.

Wessam Bassam Shaer, 32, was recovered around 9:15 a.m. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is leading the investigation.

Shaer went missing Saturday near Lincoln Park in Valparaiso after a witness observed his kayak capsize, according to an Aqua Alert issued by the Sheriff’s Office. His kayak was located and removed from the water, but Shaer was not with it. His green jacket and beanie were also recovered.

“We are terribly saddened to report Wessam’s body was recovered this morning,” the Sheriff’s Office stated. “Our sincere prayers go out to his family and friends in this tragedy.”

PROMOTION

Join the conversation...Cancel reply

Continue reading 👇

Public Safety

Okaloosa Sheriff’s Office tops 380 spring break citations with weeks still to go

Public Safety

Destin Commons reopens after bomb threat forces evacuation

Public Safety

Suspect in custody for fatal shooting of 20-year-old man in north Okaloosa County

Public Safety

Okaloosa Sheriff’s Office launches transparency portal for Flock camera program

H. G. commented on City of Destin releases countywide telephone survey results on Holiday Isle state park

“Use part of the $5million to remove the docks that are in an already overcrowded harbor.”

Respond

Anna Perle commented on Fort Walton Beach seeking artists to paint patriotic fire hydrants for nation’s 250th birthday

“Fire hydrants are color coded for the rate of water flow measured in gallons per minute (GPM). Seems like painting the hydrants in artistic color designs would mess up this...”

Brandi commented on City of Destin releases countywide telephone survey results on Holiday Isle state park

“Isn't that going to make that area of waterway too crowded during tourist season ? As is already is!”

Michael L. Cobb commented on WordroW: April 1, 2026

“1 min 36 sec”

Kevin Greybill commented on City of Destin releases countywide telephone survey results on Holiday Isle state park

“Who authorized the building of the docks?”

Trav commented on Fort Walton Beach parents charged with child neglect and abuse after 2-year-old left alone in feces-covered room

“Hopefully never!”

“Hopefully they didn't get their child back. They're lucky the Kiddo survived.”

W Taylor commented on City of Destin releases countywide telephone survey results on Holiday Isle state park

“The county needs to walk away gracefully and let Destin handle it.”

Andy Kennell commented on Jim Bagby qualifies for Walton County Commission ballot through petition process

“Jim Bagby, take the pledge to always support & fight for the citizens & tourists proven historic right to free and unobstructed access to and use of the beaches in...”

Michael L. Cobb commented on WordroW: March 30, 2026

“1 min 23 sec”